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Revelation-17

The Great Harlot: A Devotional Study on Revelation 17​

Introduction​

The book of Revelation is filled with poignant visuals and poetic language that can be challenging to unpack. Chapter 17, in particular, can be a tricky and convoluted maze to navigate. As we explore this chapter, let's delve into a profound message about Idolatry, false teachings, and God's judgment.

Section 1: The Coming judgment (Revelation 17:1-6)​

Devotional Thought: John is taken in the spirit to a mysterious woman sitting on a scarlet beast. The woman is adorned in purple and scarlet, adorned with gold, jewels, and pearls. She represents the great harlot named Babylon, which scripture explains is a symbolic representation of false religion and teachings. This unit foreshadows the great judgment of false religion and teachings to come. Consider the parts of your faith that you may have put above your relationship with God.

Reflection Questions:

  • What parts of your faith system have you made a priority over your relationship with God?
  • Are you aware of any false religious systems around you, and how can you guard yourself from their allure?

Section 2: The Fall of Babylon (Revelation 17:7-18)​

Devotional Thought: John's vision gets even more magnificent, with the angel and voice revealing the identity of the woman. Babylon is named as the great city, meaning false religious systems, and the beast that she sits on is the seven-headed and ten-horned beast of Revelation 13. The voice revealed that God's judgment against Babylon will fall, which explains why God will bring her down. Consider the warning against placing the created above the Creator.

Reflection Questions:

  • Are you aware of any teachings or doctrines that take God's holy Word and make it human's belief system?
  • How can you uphold the truth of God's Word and not let false religious systems fill you with deception?

Conclusion:​

The chapter ends with the call to drink the wine of God's wrath mingled with the blood of God's people, the martyrs of Jesus Christ. The call to drink the wine of God's wrath exposes the damaging effect of false religious systems and teachings on the lives of God's people. It reveals the danger in relying on false religious systems and false doctrines that compromise the truths of God's holy word. As we continue our journey through Revelation, let's remain vigilant in our understanding of God's holy Word and expose any false religious systems that threaten our faith.